Two intrepid explorers from Pembrokeshire are swapping their cars for hitchhiking to support two vital Welsh causes. Jamie and Shaun, known to their followers as Abandoned Explore Wales and Urban Welsh Explorer, will embark on a five-day journey across the country starting Monday, July 13.
The pair, who are best friends and regular exploring partners, plan to hitchhike a circular route beginning and ending in their home town of Haverfordwest. The challenge will see them travel to checkpoints near Cardiff, Wrexham, Caernarfon, and Aberystwyth. To keep the adventure authentic, they will be carrying only a tent and have vowed not to use any hotels or bed and breakfasts during the trip.
Jamie said: "We decided to do this challenge because it fits in with what we love. The unknown of will we get a lift, will we do it in five days, who will we meet along the way, and what will the weather be like."
The duo are raising money for the Wales Air Ambulance Charity and the Paul Sartori Foundation. The air ambulance service provides critical care 24/7 and requires £13m to operate this year alone, having completed 3,665 missions in 2025.
Jamie chose the air ambulance as his designated charity. He commented: "I think they play a massive part in Wales. Wales is a beautiful place to explore and go on adventures and we all need to remember who is there if we end up in trouble."
Shaun is supporting the Paul Sartori Foundation, a hospice-at-home service providing free end-of-life care. His choice is deeply personal, following the care the charity provided to his mother before she passed away from cancer.
The explorers will be posting updates and going live on their Facebook pages throughout the journey, signal permitting, to allow supporters to follow their progress. Those wishing to support the cause can donate via their GoFundMe page. A tracking app will also go live here on Monday, July 13 to show their location in real time.
"This is our way of giving something back," Jamie added. "It’s about raising awareness, starting conversations, and supporting two causes that mean a lot to a lot of people."
